Wheelhorse 416-8 unable to climb hill in 1st, 2nd, 3rd gear in high range. No problems in low range.

[Joenieu 0]

Can anybody help to diagnose the problem? 

[oliver2-44 9,848]

Is the drive belt moving, but the tractor not moving? 
Check if the transmission drive pulley is loose on the shaft

Also  check if one of the axles is spinning in a loose hub. 
Is the belt idler pulley putting enough tension on the belt or is the spring to weak? 
Work your way through the drive system and tell us what’s moving and what’s not moving. 

[Terry M-(Moderator) 2,176]

You say “ unable to climb hill”.    Maybe you can provide a little more information….  Are you talking about an engine power issue, or a traction issue?

[Pullstart 63,081]

The input pulley has a set screw and should have a keyway, like the engine pulley.  If either are compromised, the pulley may be turning on the shaft but since low range is more reduction, the set screw may be holding.  All of this is speculation without more help from your observations… 

 

[ranger 1,760]

The C161 I have just bought had a similar problem. Won’t move in 3high, on gradients, fine in other gears. Reason, wrong type of drive belt. It did not have the Kevlar? Reinforcement and had stretched in one section, and thinned, ( like a stick of liquorice when pulled). Fitting correct belt completely cured the problem, much quieter too.

Edited May 22, 2023 by ranger

[953 nut 55,742]

           Your belt is probably shiney and worn-out. Go to Tractor Supply and buy a Kevlar 5/8 X 83 belt and away you go.

[squonk 41,309]

Yup. First thing to check is the belt. And don't let anybody tell you that you have to use a WH belt either. TSC or Napa is fine

Edited May 22, 2023 by squonk

[Ed Kennell 38,622]

 to the